discursive terrain

USAGE SUMMARY

"discursive terrain" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe the range of ideas, facts, opinions, or points of view related to a particular topic. For example, "Our discussion of the future of the internet has revealed a wide and complex discursive terrain of possibilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

While some attention has been given to various genre manifestations of Soul-as in Soul music and food-no book has yet fully explored the discursive terrain signified by the term.

Duke University

We have also shown that the term 'community' and its uses represents a discursive terrain imbued with power and ideology and requires unpacking to surface how it is being used and to what ends (Lynn 2006).

Critical Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Look at the Terrain.

WikiHow

A discursive, digressive lecturer.

The New York Times

It is more discursive".

The Guardian

Jarvis is highly discursive.

The Guardian - Music

It's much more discursive.

The Guardian - Film

Let's consider the discursive positioning here.

The Guardian

The film was discursive but powerful.

Britannica

Terrain awareness?

The Guardian - Travel

They describe discursive circles through the Great Plains.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "discursive terrain" when you want to emphasize the breadth and complexity of a topic as it is discussed and debated, especially in academic or theoretical contexts. It's particularly effective when highlighting the different perspectives and arguments that constitute a field of knowledge.

Common error

Avoid using "discursive terrain" in casual conversation or informal writing. It's a term best suited for academic or formal contexts. In everyday situations, simpler phrases like "topic of discussion" or "subject matter" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "discursive terrain" functions as a noun phrase, with "discursive" acting as an adjective modifying the noun "terrain". It describes a conceptual or intellectual space characterized by ongoing discussion and debate. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Academia

50%

News & Media

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "discursive terrain" is a phrase used to describe a complex intellectual or conceptual landscape shaped by discussion and debate. While grammatically correct and validated by Ludwig AI, it is relatively rare and most appropriate for academic or formal writing. Alternative phrases such as "intellectual landscape" or "field of discourse" can be used depending on the specific context. Its function is to characterize a topic as open to various interpretations and arguments, and it is generally unsuitable for informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

field of discourse

A more direct synonym, replacing 'terrain' with 'field' to describe the area of discussion.

rhetorical landscape

Emphasizes the use of rhetoric and persuasive language within the area of discussion.

intellectual landscape

Replaces 'discursive' with 'intellectual' and 'terrain' with 'landscape', emphasizing the mental and conceptual nature of the area of discussion.

thematic space

Uses 'thematic space' to emphasize the themes present in the discussion.

conceptual framework

Focuses on the structure and organization of ideas, shifting from a spatial metaphor to a more structural one.

argumentative arena

Highlights the competitive and confrontational aspects of the discussion.

intellectual sphere

Uses 'sphere' to represent the realm of intellectual discussion, rather than 'terrain'.

area of debate

Highlights the contentious nature of the discussion, focusing on disagreement and argument.

topic under discussion

A more literal and less metaphorical way of referring to the subject being discussed.

subject matter

Focuses on the content of the discussion, rather than its argumentative or intellectual dimensions.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "discursive terrain" in a sentence?

To use "discursive terrain" effectively, ensure your sentence reflects a complex and multifaceted topic. For example, "The study explores the complex discursive terrain of climate change debates."

What are some alternatives to "discursive terrain" that maintain a similar meaning?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "intellectual landscape", "field of discourse", or "conceptual framework".

In what type of writing is "discursive terrain" most appropriate?

"Discursive terrain" is most appropriate in academic papers, scholarly articles, and formal essays where detailed analysis and exploration of various perspectives are required.

How does "discursive terrain" differ from a simple "topic of discussion"?

"Discursive terrain" implies a broader and more complex range of interconnected ideas, arguments, and perspectives than a simple "topic of discussion". The former suggests a deep and multifaceted exploration, while the latter is more general.